Summer NAMM, July 12 -14, 2012, Nashville, TN, USA

The music industry stayed busy during a fun and productive three days in Nashville for Summer NAMM. The National Association of Music Merchant’s (NAMM) event held July 12-14 is the summer-timed compliment to January’s NAMM Show timed to line up with product releases for the holiday season.
Beyond the music instrument and product showings at Summer NAMM, the show provides Members with complimentary professional development programs, the Top 100 Dealer Awards and an opportunity to hear live music nearly around the clock while in Music City.
"We're grateful to the Members who invested their time and money to be participate in Summer NAMM," said Joe Lamond, president and CEO of NAMM. "In spite of the continuing economic challenges, these folks are not sitting on the sidelines waiting for things to get better, but instead seizing the opportunity to increase their competitive advantage as we head into the fall and holiday selling season."
Summer NAMM saw more retail owners, buyers and employees doing business at the show. The number of retail buyers increased a robust 20% in 2012 over 2011.
Energy and growth was mirrored on the manufacturing side with a 9% increase in exhibitors from 2011 to 2012. It was made up in part by new and returning brands. In total, 372 exhibitors representing many more brands shared new products with buyers from around the world at Summer NAMM.
While Summer NAMM is officially only a three-day event, over 100 retailers arrived in Music City a day early for NAMM’s inaugural Retail Boot Camp. Bob Negen, a retail expert led a all day educational session with practical business planning, marketing and other tangible business advice tailored specifically for independent music instrument and product dealers.